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On the spring 2014 ready-to-wear runway, ZAC Zac Posen debuted a collection complete with simple, long dresses for day in chaste floral prints and vibrant yellows, blues and reds. The collection was equal parts sophisticated and bright with one look particularly catching my eye–an elegant, long, tangerine-colored dress. Just recently starting a full time job at a business firm has left me scouring magazines and blogs for work-appropriate outfit ideas. I found myself gravitating towards patterns that I didn’t even like and lots of navy blues and blacks, despite the fact that it’s summer. After stumbling upon this ZAC Zac Posen collection, I came to a realization–as long as I follow the basics of the dress code and keep it professional, I can have fun with my office outfits. So I set out on a journey.

I began by entering H&M one afternoon with every intention of finding the perfect outfit for my first day on the job. Naturally, I felt myself drifting toward the maxi dresses. Initially I stopped myself, but after snagging a crisp white blazer, I passed by the dresses again. Doing a double-take, I thought back to the ZAC Zac Posen runway; the tangerine dress popped into my head as well as a sleek white blazer Posen paired with a scorching yellow top. I snagged the closest thing I could find to that dress – a vibrant orange maxi with a slight high-low fit – deciding I would combine the two looks with the refreshing summer blazer in my hands.

Next, I stopped into Free People in search of an oversized bag, which I would be using to cart my laptop, personal belongings and, of course, snacks. Obviously, the tote had to be spacious as well as professional. After tearing myself away from the intricately embellished yet impractical bags, I came across this slouchy vegan tote complete with removable pockets, an optional extended strap and a reversible interior. There’s a sleek brown side for the office and a fun coral side for my days off when I want to switch things up. I was instantly won over, and only had one component left of my outfit to conquer–the shoes.

Having spent more money than I’d like to admit, I retired to my mother’s closet for this last element. After some digging, I came up with a pair of Michael Kors sandals in a brown color that perfectly matched both my summer tan and my new tote. With a small heel and tiny silver details, these shoes were the cherry on top of my ideal first day look.